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Cedar Bluff Trailhead

Cedar Bluff Trail is a 1.5-mile loop trail in the Lane Spring Recreation Area. It climbs the hillside a rocky cedar glad and view of Little Piney Creek are possible. 

This trail starts at the northern part of the recreation area. The bottom of the trail that comes back out in the Recreation area of Lane Spring.

Trail Details

  • Rating: Easy
  • Length: 1.1 miles
  • Best Seasons: Fall, winter, and spring
  • Surface Type: Unsurfaced, native material 

General Information

Camping

Camping is available at Lane Springs

Safety:

  • During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures.
  • Be aware of hunting seasons.

For more safety tips visit the Safety section of the website.

January - December

Day Use Hours: 

  • 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Day Use Fees

Day Use Fees can be paid on-site using the provided fee tubes.

  • Fees must be paid using cash or check, no credit card machines are available at any sites.
  • Annual and Lifetime passes can be purchased to cover day use fees at USDA Forest Service operated sites.

On the Trail

  • Hiking is permitted.
  • No motorized vehicles, horses or bikes are permitted.

At the Trailheads

  • No overnight camping in day use areas at any time of year.
  • Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash in the day use area
  • Fireworks are prohibited.

Day Use at Lane Spring:

  • $5 per vehicle per day
  • Commercial Vehicle (Bus): $10 vehicle per day

Trail Use

Dogs are allowed on hiking trails. Please leash your dog, unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.

  • Leashes must be six feet, or shorter, when in developed recreation sites, including trails within the boundaries (36 CFR 261.16(j)) when they are not inside an enclosed vehicle or tent.
  • Yield your leashed dog around other hikers and horses.
  • Pack out your dogs waste or bury it 100 feet from water and trails.

Camping

  • Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside a tent.
  • Store dog food in bear-resistant containers and feed your pet away from the campsite.
  • Pick up and bag your dog’s waste. Place it in a provided trash receptacle or pack it out.
  • Do not leave your dog unattended at any time.
  • Do not leave your dog in the vehicle on a hot day.
  • Keep your dog in your tent or vehicle at night.
  • Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.

Wildlife

  • Do not allow them to interact with wildlife

USDA Forest Service Logo

Address: 108 S. Sam Houston Blvd. Houston, MO 65483
Phone: 417-967-4194
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday; District Offices closed 1 - 1:30 for lunch (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov

Getting There

Directions

From Rolla, MO

  • go 12 miles south on Hwy 63;
  • turn right/west onto Forest Road 1892 (marked by entrance sign). Follow this road 1.5 miles to recreation area where the road dead ends.

Travel Considerations

Winter Use

The trail is still available for use when the gate to Lane Springs is closed. You will need to park at the small parking area provided next to the gate at the top of the hill.

Parking

Day Use: multiple parking lots that can fit 75 vehicles total

Facility and Amenity Information

Accessibility

Vault toilet at Lane Spring is accessible

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Water

Potable water is available at this site.

Water available at Lane Springs

Nearby Trails

Recreation Opportunities

Day Hikes Info

Cedar Bluff Trail begins near the pavilion in the picnic area at the Lane Spring Recreation Area (look for the sign). The trail is mostly wooded, and steep in some places. At its highest point, the trail offers a view of Little Piney Creek. Cedar Bluff trail is a 1.5- mile loop which returns to the picnic area.

Last updated September 11, 2025